Mason Elephant Lodge

This was our second visit to Mason Park, and it remains one of the most amazing experiences we've had in Bali. Feeding and washing the elephants was a highlight, and my partner and I plan to do it every time we come back. The staff are attentive, and it's also lovely to sit in the Cafe overlooking the feeding area and watch people enjoying time close to these majestic animals. Mason Elephant Park is a world renowned conservation park, with rescued elephants and several born there. The work to keep them comfortable and treat them well is brilliant. The gardens and grounds are beautiful too.

I didn't stay at the lodge, just visited the elephant park. The keepers were kind and helpful, gave good information, and took photos for visitors. Five stars for them. For someone mainly looking to see and feed elephants, it's a good visit. But if you're more concerned about their experience, it feels mixed, maybe 50:50. They seem cared for, yet their day appears to revolve around tourist interactions, almost like working 9-5. It was a bit sad to see, and I'd like to see them in a more natural habitat too.

The elephant wash is well worth doing. Getting close to these gentle animals was amazing, and the staff were fantastic, friendly, and always willing to help. I didn't stay at the lodge, but had a great day at the park. Talking with the handlers, you can tell they care about each elephant. When one had had enough at the feeding station, her handler calmly took her away and seemed to recognize she was done. The park explains on its website, in videos, and on signs why elephants are chained when they're alone. The only downside was seeing wannabe influencers and instahoes around the park, though that's not mason lodges' fault 😅

The staff were friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about the elephants. You can feel the park's commitment to animal welfare, and the elephants looked relaxed and happy, as if they were treated with real respect. I brought a friend's kids, and the visit turned out to be educational for them. They learned about elephants and plants, since the park has so many kinds of trees and other flora. The grounds are lush, beautifully maintained, and peaceful. A meaningful, memorable outing, highly recommended.